Crazy 8s

Crazy 8s is an independent ska and funk band that was mainly active in the 1980s. They are known for their "politically pungent" lyrics and

The Crazy 8s were founded at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon and attained recognition mainly through airing on college radio, specifically KBVR FM. Their first album, Law and Order, was released in 1983 and sold 6,000 copies in its first week, finally totalling 11,000 units sold. The album reached the top 20 on the Gavin Report during the year of its release, with the hit single Johnny Q Public. They were selected to appear on Star Search as a novelty rock band, and received a top score of four stars. Afterwards, they were reviewed by TV Guide, who said that the lead singer, Todd Duncan, bore a striking resemblance to Alfred E. Neuman of MAD Magazine fame.

In 1984 the Crazy 8s opened for The Clash, Violent Femmes, and The English Beat. In 1985 they played with Red Hot Chili Peppers on their first tour. They were featured in the September 26 1985 issue of Rolling Stone magazine as one of the top 10 bands playing on college radio.